Cymric
Also known as the longhaired Manx, the Cymric is a plush, huggable breed with the unique qualities of the Manx plus a dense, semi-long coat. Like the Manx, the Cymric is one tail short - the defining characteristic of the breed. While some unenlightened souls think that a cat is ill-dressed indeed without an elegant tail, Cymric fanciers believe a cat should not be defined by its tail any more than humans should be defined by the style of their clothes or the color of their skin. And Cymrics get their feelings across just fine without a tail to lash.

History and Origin

The ultimate survivor, the Cymric developed on the Isle of Man, a small island located in the middle of the Irish Sea midway between Liverpool, England, and Belfast, Ireland. The Isle's records indicate that the breed first began as a mutation among the island's domestic cat population, although some believe that the mutation may have occurred elsewhere and was transported onto the island by trading ships. However, since this happened hundreds of years ago, we'll never know for sure.

Since both long and shorthaired cats were present on the island, both longhaired and shorthaired varieties developed on the Isle. Presumably, the gene for long hair passed around the island's closed environment, just as did the dominant gene for taillessness. Unlike the Manx gene, however, long hair is a recessive trait, and the gene can be carried without manifesting for generations.

While the Cymric was shown in America as early as 1963, the breed didn't really begin to become popular until the mid 1970s. The breed's name was derived from the word "Cymru," the Welsh word for Wales. Pioneer Cymric breeder Blair Wright had heard her grandmother tell tales of the longhaired tailless cats she'd seen in that area during her childhood, so the name seemed appropriate. Today, most cat associations accept the Cymric as a breed in its own right.

Appearance

Short on tail, the Cymric is long on fur. It's the luxurious coat that sets the Cymric apart from the Manx. The heavy, glossy coat is medium long, dense and full. A thick undercoat gives the coat density and a well-padded appearance and adds to the Cymric's illusion of size and heft. The breeches, abdomen and neck-ruff are usually longer than the fur on the main body. Tufts decorate the ears and toes, and the cheeks sport full, thick sprouts of hair, giving the face a broad appearance. Like the Manx, the Cymric comes in all colors and patterns except those that suggest hybridization, such as the Siamese pointed pattern.

The body and head style is the same as the Manx's. The overall impression is that of roundness: round head, firm, round muzzle, prominent cheeks, broad chest, and a rump as round as a grapefruit. The legs are short and substantial and the hind legs are strong and longer than the front, giving the cat spring power.

Tail Types

The "Manx gene" produces a variety of tail lengths, and any given litter can have all four types. Predicting how many pet-quality and show-quality Cymrics one is likely to get in a single litter is difficult indeed. Tail types are separated into four varieties:


Rumpy Cymric are highly prized since this tail type is favored in the show ring. Rumpies are completely tailless and often have a dimple at the base of the spine where the tail would ordinarily begin.


Rumpy-risers have a short knob of tail which consists of one to three vertebrae connected to the last bone of the spine. Risers can be shown if the vertical rise of the tail doesn't stop the judge's hand when the cat is stroked.


Stumpies have a short tail stump that is often curved or kinked and cats with this tail type are usually pet quality.


Longies have tails that are almost as long as an average cat's. Many breeders dock the tails of these pet-quality kittens to make them easier to place and to avoid a manifestation of the Manx gene, which causes the tail vertebrae to ossify in later years, causing great pain.

Personality

The Cymric shares the Manx's pleasant personality. Cymrics are even-tempered, calm, intelligent and adaptable, and generally form strong bonds with their human companions. While they ordinarily bond with one special person, they enjoy the company of all family members. Cymrics generally make good family pets, and get along with other companion animals, even dogs. Cymrics are playful, and if given the opportunity become talented mousers. Like the Manx, Cymrics are fascinated by water. Cymrics are remarkable jumpers because of their powerful back legs and can usually be found perched on the highest shelf.

Grooming

Because of the semi-long fur and thick undercoat, some grooming is required. However, the fur reportedly resists matting and therefore doesn't require as much grooming as other longhaired breeds. Still, the Cymric's dense coat needs combing with a good quality steel comb two or three times a week to remove loose fur and prevent matting.

Cost

Pet quality Cymrics range from around $400 to $700, depending upon the breeder, location, gender, coat pattern and color and, of course, the type of tail. The rare, prized rumpy Cymric runs $1,000 and up, particularly if its body type meets the show standard and its coat is of good quality and texture.

Association Acceptance


American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE)

American Cat Association (ACA)

American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) under the name "Manx Longhair"

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

In 1994, the CFA accepted the Cymric as a division of the Manx breed, renaming the breed "Manx Longhair." This was a boon to breeders since longhaired kittens born to Manx parents (possible when both parents carry the longhair gene) could be registered and shown in the longhair division. The other associations consider the Manx and the Cymric separate breeds, but most allow longhaired Manx offspring to be registered as Cymrics. This eliminates status problems with "split litters," in which both hair lengths are present. TICA considers the Manx and the Cymric members of the Manx/Cymric breed group.

Special Notes

Cymric kittens that inherit two copies of the Manx gene, one from each parent, die before birth and are reabsorbed in the womb. Since these kittens make up about 25 percent of all kittens conceived from Cymric to Cymric matings (and Manx to Manx matings) litters are usually small, usually averaging two, three or four. The Manx gene can also cause severe defects of the spine such as spina bifida, gaps in the vertebrae, fused vertebrae and defects of the colon. These problems usually occur within the first month, but since they can occur within the first four months of age, most breeders keep their kittens for at least 16 weeks. Buy from a breeder who is willing to guarantee the health of his or her kittens, and avoid Cymrics that show any signs of weakness in the hindquarters or that walk stiffly, hop or have trouble moving.

Cornish Rex
When you first encounter the Cornish rex, you might think you're looking at something that beamed down from the Mother Ship. The breed's willowy contours, curly coat, satellite dish ears and large soulful eyes give it an unsettling otherworldly appearance. Once you get to know the breed, however, you'll realize these cats are pure feline. Like small, furry aliens from the planet Rex, Cornish rex abduct your heart and keep you laughing at their playful antics.

History and Origin

The first Cornish rex was discovered on July 21, 1950, on a farm in Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, England, when Serena, a tortoiseshell and white domestic, gave birth to five kittens. Four were ordinary, but the fifth was unique. Kallibunker, as the kitten was named, was an orange and white male with short, curly fur. Unlike the other kittens that were stocky little domestics, Kallibunker had a long, lithe body, large ears, a slender tail, and a wedge-shaped head.

Nina Ennismore, the cat's owner, consulted a British geneticist and on his advice started a breeding program with her mutant mouser. She selected the name Cornish rex because the breed originated in Cornwall and because of the resemblance to the curly-coated Astrex rabbit.

Two Cornish rex were imported to America in 1957. One died shortly after arrival, but the other, pregnant by one of Kallibunker's sons, survived and became the foundation for the breed in North America. Since the gene pool was small, breeders initially crossed the Cornish with other breeds such as American shorthairs, Siamese, and Havana browns. This provided genetic diversity and added a vast array of colors and patterns.

Appearance

Sometimes compared to the whippet dog because of his lean, racy build, the Cornish rex is built for speed. From torso to tail, the Cornish is long and lean, and the back is naturally arched. The head is small and egg-shaped, the ears large, alert and set high on the head. The eyes are large, oval, and slanting slightly upward. A long Roman nose enhances the head length. Don't let the slim build fool you, though; the Cornish is no weakling. Under that ultra-short hair are strong muscles and bones.

The breed's most celebrated trait, however, is its very short rexed fur. An ordinary cat's coat is made of three hair types: guard, awn, and down. The Cornish coat, however, completely lacks guard hairs - the long, stiff, outer hairs that act as a barrier against the elements. Very short awn and down hairs cover the entire body in tight, uniform curls. Even the whiskers are short and curly. The fur lies close to the body and is extremely soft, silky, and dense. It feels like warm velvet to the touch. Produced by spontaneous natural mutation, the Cornish's coat is not unique - it has appeared in other animal species such as rabbits, mice, horses and other cat breeds as well.

Common colors and patterns include bicolor, solid white, blue, and black, black smoke, and red tabby, although virtually every color and pattern is accepted including the colorpoint (Siamese) pattern. However, since the breed is comparatively rare, not all colors are available.

Personality

Cornish rex have great personalities to match their special packaging. They have only two speeds - warp drive and out cold. They are perfect for people who like energetic, inquisitive, agile felines. Everything is a game to the Cornish and many will bring back toys for you to toss again and again. You'll tire of the game long before your Cornish does. They are adept at climbing, leaping and sprinting and have marvelously nimble paws. No shelf, drawer or cupboard is safe from the curious Cornish.

Cornish rex are intelligent, people-oriented extroverts. They crave the attention of their preferred people and can be hard to ignore when they're in a sociable mood, which is most of the time. Keen observers, they quickly learn your routine and insist on helping with every task. Since their thin coats don't offer much protection from the elements, Cornish are heat-seeking missiles aimed straight at your lap. With their warm suede feel, they make perfect winter lap warmers.

Grooming

You might expect the ultra-shorthaired Cornish to need no grooming. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. Some rex require regular bathing because of the buildup of sebaceous secretions. All cats produce these normal oily secretions, but Cornish rex don't have as much hair to absorb them as ordinary cats. Allowed to collect, these oily secretions can make the coat look greasy and can even cause skin problems. The need for bathing depends a lot upon the individual cat, however. Some need weekly bathing, while others need a bath every few months. Either way, it's important to train your Cornish to tolerate bathing early, starting at 16 weeks or so. Since the Cornish's short, thin coat dries quickly, bathing is not the ordeal it is for ordinary cats.

Cost

Pet and breeder quality Cornish rex kittens sell for $350 to $700, depending upon the breeder, location, bloodline, gender, pattern and color. Some breeders sell only pet and show quality, reasoning that if a cat isn't good enough to show, it shouldn't be bred, either. Show quality kittens run $1,000 and up, sometimes far up for kittens with excellent show prospects. Since the breed is relatively rare but still popular, breeders maintain waiting lists, and you'll probably have to wait several months or more to get a Cornish kitten. If you are looking for pet quality, you'll have an easier time acquiring a Cornish rex if you're flexible about color and gender.

Association Acceptance


American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE)

American Cat Association (ACA)

American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

Cat Fanciers' Federation (CFF)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

Special Notes

Cornish and other rex breeds are sometimes rumored to be hypoallergenic and therefore more easily tolerated by people allergic to cats. Unfortunately, this is not true. The short hair is great for keeping fur off the furniture but it's little help for those with allergies. Cat hair itself doesn't cause allergic reactions. The real culprit is an allergenic protein called Fel d1 that's secreted via saliva and sebaceous glands, which is spread onto the fur during grooming. Cornish rex produce just as much of this protein.

Chartreux
The Chartreux (pronounced "shar-true") is a shorthaired, solid blue cat with a Mona Lisa smile, a gentle, sweet personality, and gloriously plush fur. Known as the smiling cat of France, the Chartreux has had his ups and downs over the many centuries of his existence. True to his nature, the Chartreux has come through it all with a smile.

History and Origin

As the legend goes, the Chartreux breed developed at the Le Grand Chartreux monastery in the French Alps just outside Paris. The Carthusian order of monks at the monastery, in their spare time between praying, liqueur-making and weapon-forging, bred Chartreux cats with the same skill and dedication with which they created their world-famous yellow and green Chartreuse liqueurs.

The monastery was founded in 1084 by St. Bruno, but the cats, if the story is true, didn't arrive there until the end of the Crusades in the 13th century, when crusading knights limped home and retired to monastic life. They brought with them plundered goods that included blue cats that may have been picked up in Syria. Legend has it that the monks selectively bred these felines to have quiet voices so the cats would not disturb their meditations by meowing. (The monastery's records do not mention cats, blue or any other color.)

Regardless of where he originated, the breed has been around a long time. The verifiable history of the Chartreux began in the 16th century, according to the literature of the period. The Histoire Naturelle, written in the 1700s by biologist Comte de Buffon, lists four cat breeds that were common to Europe by that time: domestic, Angora, Spanish and Chartreux. These cats did not lead easy lives in those days; primarily street cats, they were valued for their rat-catching abilities. By the beginning of the 1900s, trade dictionaries and encyclopedias listed Chartreux as the common name of a type of blue cat whose pelt was prized by furriers. It's a testament to the breed's hardiness and adaptability that the Chartreux survived at all.

After World War I, French cat breeders became interested in preserving the Chartreux as a unique breed. In the 1920s two sisters named Christine and Suzanne Leger discovered a colony of blue cats on the small Brittany island of Belle-Ile, off the coast of France. These free-roaming cats lived around a hospital in the city of Le Palais, and matched the description of the Chartreux breed. The Leger sisters decided to work with the breed, wrote a breed standard, and in 1931 first exhibited the Chartreux. Unhappily, World War II decimated the breed and after the war no more free-roaming colonies of Chartreux cats could be found. The few remaining Chartreux cats were bred with blue British shorthairs, Russian blues and blue Persians to keep the breed from extinction.

The Chartreux made his journey to the United States in 1970, when the late Helen Gamon of La Jolla, California, heard about the cats and made a trip to France, bringing back three Chartreux cats. These cats became the foundation for the North American Chartreux. Gamon was instrumental in establishing and promoting the Chartreux in the United States, and developing the breed. Today's Chartreux is very similar to the hardy French street cats of the 1700s.

Appearance

The Chartreux is sometimes unflatteringly called a "potato on toothpicks" because of the way his robust, cobby body seems to balance on comparatively short, fine-boned legs. Nevertheless, the Chartreux is as agile and elegant as any feline. The body is medium-long, husky and robust, with broad shoulders, a deep chest, powerful muscles and strong boning. Males are larger and have a more massive musculature than the females; the males have been described as "walking fortresses." Females are smaller but still plenty of pounce per ounce.

The Chartreux's head is rounded and broad with powerful jaws and full cheeks. The muzzle is comparatively small and tapered, and that mysterious smile is part of the breed's standard - frowning Chartreux cats are frowned upon in show quality cats. Medium sized ears are set high on the head and have a very erect posture. The eyes are rounded, open and expressive, which adds to the sweet, smiling expression. Eye color is copper to gold with brilliant orange preferred.

One of this breed's defining characteristics is his plush, wooly coat. Solid blue is the only accepted color and pattern, better known as gray to the lay cat person. Any shade from ash to slate is acceptable. The coat is medium-short and has a woolly texture and a resilient undercoat. The coat is dense and soft to the touch and water repellent, perfect for surviving the cold, wet climate of the French Alps.

Personality

Amiable and loyal, Chartreux are affectionate and people-oriented. When you sit down next to your Chartreux you invariably end up with big blue lapful of cat.

Chartreux are quiet cats, and it can be amusing to hear soft, tiny squeaks coming from those big, strong bodies. They do purr with great enthusiasm, however.

Not as active as some breeds, the Chartreux is calm and confident. Still, these cats have a playful side that they keep well into adulthood. Because of their strong hunting instinct, they enjoy toys that move. Feathered toys that you whirl through the air are particular favorites, as is any toy in which you take an active role.

Grooming

The Chartreux has a dense undercoat that makes the coat stand away from the body, and for that reason requires a bit more grooming than some shorthaired breeds. The fur resists matting, however, and does well with a once or twice weekly combing with a good quality steel comb. During the spring and fall shedding seasons, however, you'll want to comb out dead hairs at least every other day to keep kitty from leaving a blue blanket of hair on everything you own. Bathing a Chartreux can be challenging because their thick, wooly coats repel water so effectively. Drying takes longer as well.

Association Acceptance

The Chartreux is accepted for championship by:

American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE)

American Cat Association (ACA)

American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

Cat Fanciers' Federation (CFF)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

Special Notes

The Chartreux is generally a healthy and hardy breed, but some lines are known to possess the gene for patellar luxation (displacement of the kneecap). When severe, this condition can cause pain and lameness. Since the condition is hereditary, many breeders screen their breeding stock for it and exclude questionable cats from their programs. Ask prospective breeders about the condition before you agree to buy. Some Chartreux also tend to get gingivitis if their teeth are not regularly cleaned. Take your Chartreux in at least yearly for check-ups and, if needed, yearly cleanings. Talk to your veterinarian.

Chantilly/Tiffany
The chantilly/tiffany, a dipped-in-chocolate brown feline breed with a confusing name, is prized for a beautiful semi-long coat, long, semi-foreign body style, and gently pleasing personality. While currently rare, the breed has a small but devoted group of cat fanciers with a taste for chocolate. In fact, this breed is billed as the chocoholics delight.

Despite rumors to the contrary, the chantilly/tiffany is not, never was, and never will be a longhaired Burmese. The body, head and coat types of the two breeds are entirely different, and Burmese have never been used in the chantilly/tiffany breeding program.

History and Origin

For a new breed, the chantilly/tiffany has been around for a long time. The breed was discovered in 1967 when the breed's original proponent, Jennie Robinson, bought two longhaired chocolate-colored cats from a pet shop in White Plains, New York. The two - an 18-month-old male, Thomas, and a 6-month-old female, Shirley - produced their first litter in May 1969. During the next 7 years, Thomas and Shirley produced some 60 longhaired solid chocolate brown kittens. The American Cat Association (ACA) registered the cats as "sable foreign longhairs" and in the early 1970s Thomas and several kittens were exhibited in shows on the east coast.

Eventually, Robinson stopped breeding, but in the 1970s breeder Sigyn Lund bought Robinson's cats and continued working with the breed. Because show judges thought the name "foreign longhair" was too general, Lund named the breed "tiffany" after the Tiffany Theater, whose name she associated with class and elegance. Since Lund was a Burmese breeder, fanciers assumed the breed was a longhaired Burmese bred from her stock, although this was not so. The misinformation spread, however, and articles and books repeated the error, creating confusion. In 1979, TICA accepted the tiffany, but in the Burmese breed section. ACA dropped the breed from recognition because it was so rare. When Lund stopped breeding in the mid-1980s, the breed came close to extinction.

The breed probably would have vanished if not for fancier Tracy Oraas of Onoway, Canada, who fell in love with the tiffany in 1988. After a lot of detective work, Oraas concluded that Burmese were never used in the breeding program. She and breeder Jan DeRegt created a new breeding program using European Angoras, Havanas, Somalis and nebelungs.

In 1992, Oraas was asked to rename the breed because of possible confusion with the British tiffanie. They chose "chantilly" because they wished to preserve the elegance the tiffany name represented. The breed is now known as the tiffany, the chantilly and the chantilly/tiffany, depending upon the cat association. Still rare, the breed is slowly gaining in both numbers and acceptance.

Appearance

The ideal chantilly/tiffany is a striking feline with a slender, long, semi-foreign body elegantly clothed in glossy, silky semi-long fur. The fur lacks the downy undercoat that would mat easily. The tail bears a glorious plume, and ear furnishings extend from inside the ear like long streamers. A handsome neck ruff frames and softens the gentle contours of the face.

The head is a broad modified wedge shape with gentle contours, further softened by the long fur. The muzzle is strong, broad and softly squared. The vivid yellow, amber or gold eyes are modified ovals set far apart and at a slight angle. The ears are medium in size, rounded, and set well apart.

Originally only accepted in solid chocolate brown, today the chantilly/tiffany comes in a range of colors and patterns. Accepted colors are chocolate, blue, cinnamon, fawn and lilac. Accepted patterns are solid, mackerel tabby, spotted tabby and ticked tabby.

Personality

With a low-key, warm personality as pleasant as a cup of cocoa on a cold night, chantilly/tiffanies are gaining fanciers. They are gentle, quiet cats that nevertheless enjoy a good game of fetch, or any game in which you participate. They have temperate personalities - not too docile, too active, or too vocal - in fact, say fanciers, just right. They enjoy making conversation with their favorite humans but their voices are quiet. Their soft, sweet chirps sound a bit like pigeons cooing.

Chantilly/tiffanies usually bond with one or two family members and become devoted and loving but not overly demanding companions. They'll follow you from room to room but won't pester you for attention the way more active breeds will. Don't get the idea that they don't need companionship, though. Very people-oriented, chantilly/tiffanies need human interaction and don't do well if ignored or left alone for long periods. Although loyal to their favorite humans, they are usually reserved around strangers.

Grooming

The breed's semi-long fur lacks the dense, easily matted downy undercoat, so chantilly/tiffanies don't need as much grooming as some longhaired breeds. A good combing twice a week, with special attention paid to the longer fur on the ruff and hindquarters, is enough. The ears need regular cleaning with a cotton ball and warm water, however, since they're inclined to accumulate wax.

Association Acceptance


American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE) in the New Breed and Color class under the name "chantilly"


American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA) in the New Breed and Color class under the name "chantilly"


The International Cat Association (TICA) for registration under the name "tiffany"


Traditional Cat Association, Inc. (TCA) for championship under the name "chantilly/tiffany"


United Feline Organization (UFO) for championship under the name "chantilly/tiffany"

Special Notes

The chantilly/tiffany should not be confused with the tiffanie, a breed recognized by Britain's Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF). A striking cat with a silky semi-long coat and a Burmese body and head type, the tiffanie and his shorthaired counterpart the Burmilla was created in 1981 in London by a mating between a lilac Burmese female and a silver chinchilla Persian male. The tiffanie is not related to North America's chantilly/tiffany.

California Spangled Cat
The California spangled cat is a spotted feline with the look of the wild and the heart of a domestic. Specifically bred to resemble spotted wildcats such as the ocelot and leopard, the spangled cat was created to make a statement about the plight of the world's dwindling wildcats. Ironically, the spangled cat is one of the most rare of cat breeds. Nevertheless, the spangled has a small but dedicated following with people who love the breed's active personality and exotic looks.

History and Origin

A conversation with the late anthropologist Louis Leakey inspired Paul Casey, animal advocate and writer, to undertake the creation of the spangled cat. When working on a writing project in Africa in 1971, Casey visited the famous Olduvai Gorge where years before Louis and Mary Leakey had discovered fossils of a new hominid species. While there, Casey was shocked to hear that one of the last breeding leopards in that territory had just been killed by poachers. In their later conversation in California, Casey and Dr. Leakey explored the idea that if people had a domestic cat that looked like a mini-leopard, they would have a concrete reason to relate to the conservation problem. In other words, people wouldn't want to wear fur coats that looked a lot like their beloved house pets.

The idea stuck with Casey and in the mid-1970s he drew up an 11-generation blueprint for his lap-sized leopard, using traditional Siamese, Angoras, British shorthairs, American shorthair, Manx, and Abyssinians. These breeds gave Casey the core bloodline and each was introduced in a precise order to provide a specific characteristic to the breed. No wildcats were used in the breeding program. After he developed the core line, Casey added a spotted street cat from Egypt that possessed the feral, primitive look he wanted: a domed forehead, heavy musculature, wide-set eyes and ears, and well-defined whisker pads. And, of course, spots. This Egyptian cat, Casey claims, is a descendant of the original spotted cat worshiped in ancient Egypt. He also found that the Egyptian cat had a wonderful, social temperament, a bonus for the breed. Lastly, Casey added a shorthaired, spotted Malayan domestic cat that added musculature and a short, soft, velvety coat.

By 1985 Casey had the look he wanted for the spangled cat. He gathered a small group of breeders to help promote and propagate the breed, and formed the California Spangled Cat Association (now called CSCA International), not only to further the spangled cat but to promote protection of wildcats as well.

To gain national attention for the spangled cat, Casey introduced the cat-loving public to his creation through an advertising campaign in the 1986 Neiman-Marcus Christmas catalog. The cats were featured in a two-page spread as "his and hers" gifts priced at $1400 each. The promotion was controversial, particularly so since the same catalog featured fox, beaver, mink, coyote and ermine fur coats. This advertising strategy managed to anger just about everyone, from the animal-rights people, who were against deliberate breeding of domestic cats, to the cat fanciers, who felt that the three spotted breeds already accepted were plenty. Even the Neiman-Marcus folks were mad; they weren't pleased that Casey was speaking out against wearing furs.

However, it's rightly said that there's no such thing as bad publicity, because the advertising and the controversy brought the spangled cat exposure it otherwise never would have had. Neiman-Marcus received hundreds of inquiries about the cats, and took many more orders than Casey could fill. The demand for the cats depleted his stock, which slowed the breed's development.

Today, numbers are still small and acceptance in most of the cat associations has eluded the California spangled cat. However, a small, devoted group of breeders and fanciers are working with the breed and continuing their conservation efforts. Members of the California Spangled Cat Association think of these cats as little ambassadors for their wild cousins.

Appearance

The California spangled cat truly resembles a little leopard with the dynamic spots, low-slung hunter-like gait, and long, lean, muscular body. The forelegs are carried at a nearly 90-degree angle at the elbow, allowing the body to ride low, heightening the wildcat effect. Overall, the spangled creates the illusion of a much larger cat.

The face is expressive with wide, well-contoured, sculpted cheekbones, well-developed whisker pads, and a strong chin and jaw. The muzzle is broad, medium length and well-developed. Medium-sized, rounded ears set high on the head and well back from the face add to the wild look. The almond-shaped eyes are set well apart and slope gently.

However, the spots set the breed apart. The short coat shows off the pattern nicely. Blocked or rounded spots are preferred. Round, square, oval or triangular shapes are permissible, while crescent, eyelet, or fish scale markings are considered faults. Tabby-like barring may be present on the head, chest, and legs, but the body is unmistakably spotted. The spots may be grouped into rosette patterns.

Because of the diversity of colors used in the breed's creation, the spangled cat comes in a wide palette of spotted colors: silver, bronze, gold, red, blue, brown, black and charcoal. The spots themselves are dark, well-defined, and sharply contrasted to the background color.

Two other varieties exist as well - the snow leopard and the king spangled. The snow leopard resembles the central Asian great cat by that name. A light background, vivid spots, and blue eyes give this variety a particularly dramatic look. Born white, the snow leopard develops markings as she matures. The king spangled resembles the endangered king cheetah. At birth, the king spangled is completely black except for the face, legs and underbelly. In adulthood, strap-like segments and rows of diamond-shaped markings join at the cat's sides. The face shows pale tear-stain markings which extend from the inner corner of the eye down to the outer edge of the mouth.

Personality

Despite the wild look, California spangled cats are affectionate, curious, social, and devoted to their humans. Known for their well-honed intelligence, spangled cats generally find ways to wrap their humans around their spotted paws, and make you love them for it. You'll find them perching at eye-level to keep eye contact with you and to get a good view of the action. They are also noted for their energy and athletic abilities, and will keep you amused with their acrobatics. They have strong hunting instincts and are quick to pounce on unsuspecting toes or catnip mice -- or the real thing, if so allowed. Toys with feathers are always a hit. Spangled cats particularly enjoy games in which you take an active role.

Grooming

California spangled cats need little grooming. Their short, sleek coats need minimal maintenance. Use a rubber brush once a week or so to remove loose hair, particularly during the fall and spring shedding seasons.

Cost

Getting a spangled cat is difficult since numbers are limited, prices high, and waiting lists long. Spangled cats begin at about $800 and go up to $2500, sometimes more. Too, preference may be given to people who will be active in breeding their cats, since numbers are vital to the advancement of this breed.

Association Acceptance

The California spangled cat is accepted for registration by:


The International Cat Association (TICA)

Special Notes

For a breed to be considered for acceptance, most associations require a specific number of cats registered with the association, and a certain number of breeders actively working with the breed. The associations also require that the cats be shown frequently in their shows. All of this requires a great deal of effort, time and money.

Burmese
Sometimes described as a brick wrapped in silk, the Burmese is a solidly built feline with a short, glossy, satin-like coat. Originally from Burma (now Myanmar), all North American and European Burmese can be traced to a single cat that arrived in the United States in 1930. The breed itself, however, has existed for hundreds of years in its native land. As the legend goes, the Burmese is a descendant of a breed once worshiped in Burmese temples as embodiments of gods.

History and Origin

Called copper cats in their native region for their rich brown color, these cats have existed in Southeast Asia for centuries. They were described and depicted in the ancient text The Cat-Book Poems, a manuscript written in the city of Ayudha, Siam (now Thailand) sometime between 1350, when the city was founded, and 1767, when the city was razed by invaders.

The modern Burmese saga, however, began in 1930, when a female cat was brought to the United States from Burma. The cat, named Wong Mau, had caught the fancy of a retired Navy doctor named Joseph Thompson. He took the cat to his home in San Francisco.

By breeding Wong Mau with Siamese cats, Thompson determined that the Burmese was a distinct breed rather than a Siamese variant. The doctor began a carefully planned breeding program to establish the Burmese as a new American breed. Three color variations were identified: medium brown with dark points, light brown with dark points, and solid, dark-chocolate brown. Thompson decided to work with the sable brown cats, as he felt they were the most beautiful and striking.

The breed was controversial from the start. Siamese breeders strongly opposed the breed; they considered Wong Mau a poorly colored Siamese and didn't want her "poor" genes muddying up their pure gene pool. Other cat lovers, however, immediately took to the look and personality of the Burmese.

The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) first accepted the Burmese for registration in 1936, but because of the controversy and poor breeding practices, the CFA suspended registration of the Burmese in 1947. Breeders worked to improve the breed. In 1953 the CFA reinstated the Burmese for recognition and in 1957 granted championship. Since then, the breed has been refined through selective breeding, and the three distinct body styles emerged.

Appearance

Because the Burmese's body style has changed over the years, three distinct types exist today: the contemporary, the traditional and the European. The contemporary is currently favored in the show halls. This type has a stocky, compact body that is surprisingly heavy when hefted, a rounded head, a broad, short muzzle, and prominent, round, widely spaced eyes. Accepted colors are sable, champagne, blue and platinum.

The traditional more closely resembles the breed as it appeared when first imported to America: sturdy and muscular but with a distinctly different head type. The head is pleasingly rounded, the face is full, and the muzzle is broad, squared, and well-developed. The traditional comes in the same colors as the contemporary.

The European Burmese is of "foreign" type; this is an elegant, medium-sized cat whose body shape is neither anorexic nor chubby, but somewhere in between. The eyes have a slight slant. The European Burmese also comes in a wider range of colors, including brown, blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream, seal tortie, brown tortie, blue tortie, chocolate tortie and lilac tortie.

All three types share two things - short, silky fur that's satin-smooth and very glossy, and personalities that are bound to win over even the most zealous ailurophobe.

Personality

Burmese are quintessential cat companions: epitomes of playfulness, leaders in loving devotion, Velcro feline friends that stick by your side as if attached there. Burmese are active and super-smart, and love to play, particularly when you are involved in the game. However, if you spend most of your time away from home, this breed may not be for you. Burmese are extremely devoted, people-oriented cats that require a significant time commitment.

Like the Siamese, Burmese can be vocal, but usually only when something is dangerously wrong, like empty food dishes. Then they'll repeat their complaint until you take care of the catastrophe. When speaking to their favorite humans, they have a variety of sweet, expressive meows at their command, which they use liberally to get their thoughts across.

Burmese can be determined cats. Once they have started on a course of action - such as climbing into your lap or diving into your plate - you might as well give in and accept the inevitable. Your Burmese buddy will long outlast you in any battle of wills.

Grooming

The Burmese's sleek, glossy coat requires little care. A good once-a-week brushing with a good quality cat brush or steel comb will keep your Burmese looking sharp. The nails should be trimmed every two weeks or so.

Price varies depending upon area, breeder, bloodline and quality, as well as on body and head type.

Association Acceptance


American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE)

American Cat Association (ACA)

American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

Cat Fanciers' Federation (CFF)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

The traditional Burmese is accepted by the Traditional Cat Association, Inc. (TCA), although some traditionals are being shown in the above associations as well. Founded in 1987, TCA strives to preserve, protect, perpetuate and promote cats whose body styles and conformations have given way to more extreme forms.

The European Burmese was accepted in 1994 by the CFA. They are shown in the nonchampionship miscellaneous class, except in international division shows, where they are eligible for championship. In the CFF, CCA and UFO, the breed is accepted for championship under the name "Foreign Burmese."

Special Notes

Burmese can be prone to gingivitis, so they should get yearly dental checkups and cleanings as needed. Feeding a high quality hard food will help keep their teeth clean, but extra dental care is often needed to keep this breed's smile bright. Although uncommon, other reported problems that affect contemporary Burmese include cranial deformities in newborn kittens and excessive tearing and breathing problems due to the foreshortened nose. According to fanciers, the traditional and European Burmese lack these physical problems.

British Shorthair
The British shorthair, a plush feline with an unflappable, affectionate personality, has survived religious persecution, two world wars, and being voted off the island by British fanciers. Not only have these hardy cats survived, they have won over admirers on both sides of the North Atlantic. Brits, as the plush felines are affectionately called, are the perfect companions with whom to share a spot of afternoon tea. These polite, intelligent felines never slurp or bore you with tedious conversation, although you must excuse them if they drop a hair or two on the davenport.

History and Origin

The British shorthair has been around, in one form or another, for many years. The Brit is native to Great Britain in the same way that the American shorthair is native to America. Although the Phoenicians first introduced domestic cats to Britain, the Romans were responsible for their widespread establishment when they invaded the British Isles about 2,000 years ago. When the Romans conquered and colonized other lands, they brought cats with them to control rodent populations and to serve as companions. Eventually, the Romans were evicted from the Isles, but the cats they had brought with them remained, firmly ensconced in the granaries and alleys of Britain.

Rougher times were in store for the British shorthair, however. The breed lived through a particularly ugly period beginning around the middle of the thirteenth century when religious sects killed cats for an alleged link with the devil. Mass purges were held where cats were rounded up and destroyed, and ritualistic ceremonies were held to symbolize casting out evil by the killing of cats.

Even after the persecution ended, people kept cats mainly for their rodent-catching prowess rather than as pampered companions. The cats hung out in Great Britain's alleys, gardens, barns, households and pubs, earning their keep as the perfect mousetraps.

All that changed in the 1800s. Harrison Weir, a renowned author who is considered the father of the cat fancy, was the first to see the British shorthair as more than a common household mouser. Weir's celebrated cat show at the Crystal Palace of London in 1871 marked the beginning of the modern day cat fancy, and marked the Brit's rise in popularity. By the end of the nineteenth century, owning purebred cats had become a status symbol, and British shorthairs were respected and prized. Solid blue Brits, called the British blue, were particularly popular then as they are today.

Just as quickly, the breed's popularity faded as fanciers turned to the exotic longhairs such as the Persian and Angora. Two world wars further diminished both numbers and enthusiasm for Britain's own breed. By the end of World War II, the British shorthair was an endangered species. Only by crossbreeding the few remaining Brits to other breeds such as the Persian, Russian blue, Burmese and Chartreux did the breed survive.

Although British shorthairs had been imported into North America since the early 1900s, American fanciers didn't become interested in the breed until the 1960s. In 1967, the American Cat Association was the first organization to grant championship status under the name British blue. The Cat Fanciers' Association granted championship status in 1980 under the name British shorthair, as it is known by all North American associations today. In 2001, the Brit ranked 18th out of the 40 breeds CFA recognizes according to the breed registration totals.

Appearance

Today's British shorthair is a large, compact, powerful cat with a broad, strong chest and short, strong legs. The massive head is round and set on a short, sturdy neck. The face has round underlying bone structure, and the muzzle and chin are well-developed. Medium-sized ears are set well apart, fitting into the contour of the head. The eyes are large, and the broad nose has a gentle dip in profile. Full cheeks and large, well-rounded whisker pads give the cat a perpetual smile. As you might guess, the overall impression of the cat is one of roundness. Brits mature very slowly, reaching their physical peak at about five years.

Although blue is still the most common color, the Brit comes in myriad hues to suit any decor. All colors and patterns are acceptable except those showing evidence of hybridization, resulting in the colors chocolate, lavender, the Siamese pattern, or these combinations with white.

The Brit's coat is as plush as a deep pile carpet; the thick undercoat makes the fur stand away from the body. The fur feels like firm, warm velvet to the touch, prompting fanciers to dub Brits the teddy bears of the cat kingdom. The coat density changes with the seasons with the greatest density occurring in the winter months.

Personality

British shorthairs are quiet, confident cats with a bit of British reserve, particularly when you are first introduced to them. Brit fanciers describe Brits as cats that like to keep a low profile. Once they get to know you, however, they are affectionate without being demanding and playful without being hyper. Vocally, they are quiet but make up for their silence with mighty purrs.

Brits enjoy following their chosen humans from room to room to keep an eye on all activities. They also enjoy interactive games with their human friends, but they relish their quiet time, too. Unlike some breeds that crave constant attention, Brits enjoy being by themselves on occasion. This makes them good choices for folks who must spend part of the day away from home.

One thing Brits are not, however, is lap cats, or cats that enjoy being picked up. They'd much rather sit beside you, or curl up at your feet, than cuddle on your lap. When picked up they stiffen like fur-covered boards, legs stretched stiffly out and heads turned resolutely away until you give in and put them down.

Grooming

Grooming a British shorthair is easy. Because of the Brit's dense undercoat, a good once a week combing for five to ten minutes with a good quality steel comb is recommended. However, breeders recommend daily grooming during the spring and fall shedding seasons to keep your Brit looking beautiful and avoid a blanket of hair on everything you own. Bathing your Brit is not needed unless you plan to show.

Cost

Pet quality typically runs $400 to $600, while breeder/show quality costs between $800 and $1,500, sometimes more or less depending upon the breeder, bloodline, location, gender, and color and pattern. Since numbers are limited, most Brits are sold through waiting lists.

Association Acceptance

The British shorthair is accepted for championship by the following North American cat associations:


American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE)

American Cat Association (ACA)

American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

Cat Fanciers' Federation (CFF)

National Cat Fanciers' Association (NCFA)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

Special Notes

Today's Brit, like its alley cat ancestors, is a healthy, hardy breed. The only significant problem is fading kitten syndrome caused by blood type incompatibility. In the random-bred domestic cat population this is not often a problem, since type B is so rare (less than 10 percent of American domestic cats have type B blood). However, some pedigreed breeds like the British shorthair have higher percentages of B blood type. Nearly 50 percent of American Brits have type B. Type B blood queens bred to type A blood toms can produce both type B and type A kittens. The kittens with type A blood are born apparently healthy but then fade rapidly and die 24 to 72 hours after birth. Breeders have their cats typed to prevent mating cats of differing blood types. Don't worry, by the time you pick up your kitten all danger of this syndrome has passed.

Bombay
Bombays may look like miniature black panthers, but these cats are purely domestic. A comparatively rare breed, Bombays are well loved by fanciers for their pleasing packaging and people-oriented personality. Black to the roots with snapping copper eyes, this breed combines the body style and personality of the Burmese with the solid black coloration of the black American shorthair.

History and Origin

The Bombay is a creation of the late Nikki Horner. A breeder and exhibitor since the age of 16, Horner bred award-winning American shorthairs, Burmese, exotics, Himalayans, Persians, and Siamese over her long cat fancy career. In the 1950s, while she was breeding sable Burmese and the black American shorthairs, she envisioned a Burmese with a sleek black coat and snapping copper eyes - sort of a pint-sized panther. Because she imagined it would look like the black leopard of India, she named her brainchild after the city of Bombay.

Her first effort in 1958 was a failure - the kittens she produced looked more like poor American shorthairs than black Burmese. However, in 1965 she tried again, choosing her breeding stock more carefully, and eventually she achieved the look she wanted. Despite opposition from Burmese breeders - they were not excited about Horner coloring outside their bloodlines - in 1970 the Cat Fanciers' Association accepted the Bombay for registration and in 1976 granted championship status.

Horner quit breeding at this point, exhausted from the long years of struggle to get the breed accepted. Other breeders, however, had fallen in love with the Bombay's beauty and personality and worked to keep the breed going. Starting over with new bloodlines, breeders Herb and Suzanne Zwecker produced Road to Fame's Luv It Black, a breakthrough cat for the breed. Until Luv It Black's win as CFA's Second Best Cat in 1985, Bombays were doing poorly in the shows due to poor breed quality and opposition from Burmese breeders. Luv It Black can be found in the pedigrees of many of today's Bombays. While still a minority breed, (in 2000 CFA registered 97, which places the breed 34th out of the 40 breeds CFA recognizes) the Bombay has won over the opposition and gained acceptance with most North American associations.

Appearance

The Bombay is known as the cat with the patent leather coat and new penny eyes. The ideal contemporary Bombay is medium-sized with substantial bone structure and good muscular development, a cat that feels surprisingly heavy for its size. The head is pleasingly rounded with no sharp angles, and the face is full with considerable breadth between the eyes. The muzzle is broad and moderately rounded. The eyes are rounded and are set far apart. Eye color ranges from gold to copper. The medium-sized ears are tilted slightly forward and set well apart. The tail is straight and medium in length.

Two head types exist, the traditional and the contemporary. The traditional Bombay has a longer, narrower muzzle than the contemporary Bombay. The less extreme head type of the traditional is preferred by some fanciers, and are more often seen in TICA shows. CFA shows favor the contemporary.

The coat, one of the breed's nicest features, is fine and close-lying with a patent leather sheen. The short satiny fur feels like warm velvet to the touch. Only one color and pattern is accepted - solid black - although most breeding programs produce a certain number of sable-colored cats. To maintain the desired head, body and coat type, breeders cross their Bombays with sable Burmese. This creates certain problems. The gene governing the sable color is recessive, and the gene for black is dominant. If a Bombay has one copy of the black gene and one of the sable gene, as many Bombays do, the cat will be black but will carry sable and can pass it along to the offspring. Any cat that inherits a copy of the sable gene from both parents will be sable. Sable Bombays can only be shown in TICA, where they are considered Burmese.

Personality

If an aloof, independent cat is what you're craving, this breed isn't for you. Like Burmese, Bombays are velcro kitties, sticking to your side as if attached. They crave constant attention, and they'll follow you anywhere to get it. People-oriented and extremely affectionate, Bombays tend to love the entire family rather than bond with only one person. Fanciers say they are particularly good with children.

Bombays have inherited traits from both their parent breeds. Like Burmese, Bombays are playful and intelligent. Like the American shorthair, they are even-tempered and less talkative than the vocal Burmese. When motivated by empty food dishes or momentary neglect, however, they will speak their minds. Bombays don't do well if left alone for long periods; consider getting another cat to provide company for your Bombay if you're gone all day.

Grooming

Bombays need little grooming; their short, glossy coats are easy to maintain. Breeders recommend using a rubber brush to remove loose hair, particularly during the fall and spring shedding seasons. In the winter their coats get heavier in texture and in the spring their coats thin out. An occasional bath is also a good way to remove dead hairs, if your Bombay will cooperate.

Cost

Pet quality Bombays cost $300 to $600, although some breeders sell sable Bombays for less; a sable Bombay closely resembles a Burmese. Breeder and show quality runs anywhere from $750 to $2000, depending on the breeder, location, bloodline, and gender. Since this is a relatively rare breed, finding your dream kitten can take time. Most breeders maintain waiting lists since demand is high. Retired breeder and show Bombays usually run $100 to $200 to approved homes, but they can be difficult to find as well since the breed is rare.

Association Acceptance

The Bombay is accepted for championship by the following North American cat associations:


American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE)

American Cat Association (ACA)

American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

Cat Fanciers' Federation (CFF)

National Cat Fanciers' Association (NCFA)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

Special Notes

Bombays are generally healthy cats. However, because they are so closely related to the Burmese, the Bombay can have some of the same health issues. These can include runny eyes, asymmetrical jaws, and sinus and breathing problems. Reportedly, traditional Bombays have fewer of these problems because their faces are not as extremely flattened. Getting a written health guarantee is a wise practice when purchasing any pedigreed cat.

Birman
Also called the Sacred Cat of Burma, the Birman has been around for centuries. Its true origin is shrouded in mystery; few breeds have the aura of enchantment that this breed enjoys. The Birman's beautiful colorpoint pattern, long, silky fur, brilliant blue eyes, and pure white gloves make the breed a lovely addition to the cat fancy. The sweet, devoted personality makes the Birman a terrific companion as well. The breed is often favored by those who love the pointed pattern of the Himalayan but don't care for the flattened facial type and grooming needs.

History and Origin

The breed has been around for centuries. According to the story, pure white amber-eyed cats resided in the Buddhist temples of Burma (now Myanmar) and were revered as the feline carriers of the souls of priests who had departed the mortal plain. The Goddess of transmutation, Tsim-Kyan-Kse, was worshiped in these temples, represented by a golden statue with glowing sapphire eyes. Each evening Mun-Ha, High Lama of the temple of Lao-Tsun, prayed in front of the statue of Tsim-Kyan-Kse with one of the sacred temple cats, Sinh, as his faithful companion.

One day, marauders raided the temple and struck down Mun-Ha. As Mun-Ha lay dying in front of the statue, Sinh climbed onto his chest and purred to comfort and prepare him for his soul's journey. When Mun-Ha died, his soul flowed into Sinh, and a miraculous transformation took place. Sinh's amber eyes changed to the sapphire blue of the statue's. Her white coat turned a golden hue like the statue's gold. Her face, ears, tail and legs darkened to the color of the earth on which Mun-Ha lay. Where Sinh's paws touched the priest, however, there remained a dazzling white, a symbol of Mun-Ha's pure spirit. The next morning, all the temple cats had undergone the same transformation. For the next seven days Sinh refused all food and finally died, carrying Mun-Ha's spirit into paradise.

The more mundane story of the breed's origins claims the Birman developed in France. In 1919, a pair of Birman cats arrived in France from the temple of Lao-Tsun. The male cat, Maldapour, died on the way, but the female, Sita, arrived pregnant with Maldapour's offspring and became the European foundation of the Birman breed.

In 1959, the first Birman pair arrived in the United States, and in 1967, the breed was officially recognized in America. Since then, the Birman has flourished in the United States and is the third most popular longhair, according to the CFA's registration totals.

Appearance

The Birman's body strikes a happy medium between the slender Siamese and the portly Persian. Strong jaws, firm chin, medium length Roman nose and medium-sized wide set ears characterize the head. Widely spaced almost round blue eyes give the face a sweet expression.

A perfect Birman has matching white gloves on the front and back paws. White "laces" extend up the back of the rear legs. Ideally, the laces and the gloves on both front and back paws should match, but achieving this look is hard. The gene governing the gloves is very difficult to control.

The soft, silky coat is medium to long, but lacks the fine, downy undercoat that causes fur to mat easily. A lush ruff frames the face, and the tail fur is long and luxuriously soft to the touch.

The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) accepts the Birman in seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac in the pointed pattern, in which color is concentrated in the facemask, ears, legs, and tail, while the body remains lighter in color. However, other associations also accept cinnamon, fawn, red and cream point, and the patterns tortie and lynx point. Fanciers are working to get CFA acceptance for the new colors.

Personality

Birmans are easy-going, devoted, well-mannered cats with tolerant and gentle personalities, perfect for people with families or companion animals. They are playful and people-oriented and enjoy curling up in an available lap. Although they aren't as vocal as the Siamese, they do enjoy communicating their thoughts in melodious, soothing meows. Their soft, unobtrusive voices are easier on the ears than the Siamese's rasp.

Because of their gentle, loving temperaments, Birmans are easy to handle, care for and show. Don't think that they are pushover pussycats, however. As former temple cats, Birmans are accustomed to being adored; their aura of dignity seems to invite reverence from their preferred people. With a meaningful meow, a tilt of those dark ears, and a direct blue-eyed stare, they clearly communicate their wishes to their human "owners." But given a bit of well-deserved worship, the Birman returns a wealth of love and devotion.

Grooming

For a longhaired breed, the Birman is relatively easy to groom. Daily grooming is usually not needed, so the Birman is a good choice for folks who love longhaired cats but have limited grooming time. Combing with a good steel cat comb three to four times a week is usually enough.

Association Acceptance


American Association of Cat Enthusiasts (AACE)

American Cat Association (ACA)

American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)

Cat Fanciers' Federation (CFF)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

Special Notes

The Birman is a breeder's nightmare; it's very hard to achieve the traits required in a show quality Birman. Therefore, show quality cats are usually kept or placed with seasoned fanciers. Pet Birmans are also in demand, so most breeders maintain waiting lists. The wait ranges from a month or two to a year or more. If you are flexible about color and gender, the wait may be shorter. Although the Birman is generally a healthy breed, be sure to buy from a breeder who offers registration papers and a written health guarantee.

Bengal
If you like to walk on the wild side, the Bengal may be the breed for you. Originally created by crossing Asian leopard cats with domestic cats, the Bengal is a large, athletic, spotted cat with short, glossy fur. Now generations away from its wild ancestors, the Bengal is domestic in temperament but has retained its exotic, feral look. The Bengal is the most numerous and popular of the spotted domestic breeds and is the only domestic cat/wild cat cross that's widely accepted.

History and Origin

While the first Bengal was created in California in 1963 by an unintentional mating between a female Asian leopard cat and a domestic shorthair male, the breed as we know it today began in 1980, when breeders began a planned breeding program. The originator, Jean Mill, wanted to create a cat that looked like the Asian leopard cat but had a domestic's temperament. The Asian leopard cat, Felis bengalensis, a small spotted wild cat native to southern Asia, was used in the breed's foundation. Leopard cats provided by a geneticist at the University of California at Davis were bred to American domestics, ocicats, Egyptian Maus, Abyssinians, and Burmese to create the Bengal's unique appearance.

Appearance

The Bengal is a large, sleek, beautifully spotted cat with a powerful, athletic frame. Adult males are usually 10 to 18 pounds in weight, while adult females usually run 7 to 12 pounds. The body is long and very muscular, resembling the leopard cat's powerful appearance. The head is a broad modified wedge-shape and is longer than it is wide. Large almond-shaped eyes, set wide apart, and short rounded ears enhance the feral look.

In the Bengal, the spots are aligned horizontally rather than in random or tabby configuration. Like snowflakes, no two Bengals have the same pattern. Accepted colors are brown tabby, seal lynx point, seal sepia tabby and seal mink tabby. The spots can be black, brown, tan, chocolate or cinnamon and contrast with the background color. Vivid markings with sharp contrast of colors is the mark of a show Bengal. Some Bengals possess a recessive "glitter gene" that gives the fur an iridescent glow, as if covered with warm frost. The coat is short with a thick, luxurious, unusually soft texture.

Personality

What's the Bengal like? In a word -- active. Bengals are lively, energetic cats with a healthy dose of feline curiosity. Graceful, strong, and agile, Bengals love to climb and will gravitate to the highest point in any room. Almost uncannily intelligent, Bengals learn quickly and can be taught a number of tricks -- as long as you make it worth their while with a few cat treats, of course. In fact, some learn tricks you'd rather they didn't, such as opening cupboards, turning on and off light switches and flushing toilets. They are fascinated by water, and some will even join their owners in the bathtub for a dip.

Bengals form strong, emotional bonds with their human friends, and become loving, loyal companions. Because of their deep attachment to their humans and their high activity level, they need more human interaction than some breeds. If you're away all day and have an active social life at night, another breed might be a better choice.

Grooming

The Bengal is easy to care for; just a brief combing once a week to remove dead hairs will keep Tiger looking terrific.

Cost

Pet quality Bengals usually run $500 to $1,000, depending upon the breeder and location. Breeder quality will set you back $1,000 to $1,500 and show quality runs $1,500 to $2,000. When choosing a Bengal, make sure she is at least four generations away from her Asian leopard cat ancestors to avoid getting a cat with the Asian leopard cat's shy nature and unpleasant elimination habits. Leopard cats are virtually impossible to litter box train, because in the wild they eliminate in running water to keep bigger predators from tracking them. Ask the breeder if the cat has been bred Bengal to Bengal for at least four generations, and ask to see a copy of the pedigree.

Association Acceptance


American Cat Fancier's Association (ACFA)

Canadian Cat Association (CCA)

The International Cat Association (TICA)

United Feline Organization (UFO)

Traditional Cat Association, Inc. (TCA)

Each year, the Bengal gains more fans as fanciers discover the breed's charms.

Special Notes

The breed is controversial despite its popularity, however, because some fanciers are concerned that the wild blood may cause temperament problems. Others are not in favor of breeding domestic cats to wild cats for conservation reasons, since most of our wild cats are threatened or endangered. Most likely, the Bengal never will be accepted by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), since CFA's board has voted not to accept any breed with documented non-domestic ancestry.